Interview with Designer/Blogger Brian Hoff

I recently had the opportunity to chat with graphic designer/blogger Brian Hoff. Brian’s blog, the design cubicle recently celebrated some great achievements and I thought it would be a great time to get advice from such a talented and successful designer & blogger.

1. Please tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do.

My name is Brian Hoff and I am a graphic designer from Philadelphia. I specialize in identity and logo design, but work in all mediums of print and web design as well. I also run a popular graphic design and freelancing blog, the Design Cubicle, which aims to help other designers and clients appreciate design, inspire them, and keep them educated in the field. It also showcases my work and personal insights and achievements. You can also read more about me here.

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2. When and why did you first become interested in graphic design?

Growing up painting and drawing and love of technology brought my towards graphic design. Plus I love problem solving, which is essential to be a successful designer.

3. What do you enjoy most about being a graphic designer?

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I enjoy working with a diverse industry of clients and being surrounded by other designers who absolutely love what they do – it’s a very inspiring profession. I also enjoy (while working on identity projects) how such a little mark, colors, etc. can set the tone for an entire company and give it a well deserved feel and emotion.

4. In contrast, what is the most frustrating part about being a graphic designer?

Frustrating? Design? Never…. just kidding. The most frustrating aspect of design is people who under value design, which is one of my aims on the Design Cubicle – to educate and stress the importance of good, effective design. It’s difficult being in a profession where someone can go to a website and “pick a logo from a hat” for 100 bucks.

5. Who inspires you and why?

Literally everything inspires me. Other designers, blogs, my readers, books, movies… you name it and I can find inspiration in it! 🙂

6. How do you assure your design stays fresh and interesting?

I am very active in the design community and constantly on top of improving my own work. Graphic design is a very fast pace, cut throat industry so it’s important to stay on top of what’s happening. Check out my article on how to become a better designer.

7. What are some frequent barriers to your work and how do you overcome them?

I try to continuously learn as much as I can about all aspects of print and web design. Typography is a passion of mine and by far one of the hardest things to learn, but as with everything I keep working at it.

8. What attributes do you think an exceptional graphic designer should possess?

The ability to adapt and learn quickly.

9. What advice can you give those who are interested in becoming successful graphic designers/bloggers?

In order to become successful in anything you have to love what you do. Passion will always show through in your work and writing.

10. Your blog, The Design Cubicle, has become quite popular in a short amount of time. What have you done to assure its rapid success?

The Design Cubicle is by far one of my greatest achievements. It’s a place where I can share my passion and experiences and it appears that others can sense that as well. Also check out, How To Drive Traffic To Your Design Blog – many good tricks of the trade I’ve used along the way 😉

Thanks so much for taking a minute to let us get to know you better, Brian. It’s been a pleasure. Good luck in all.

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